Induction Heater and Dispenser

ABSTRACT

An induction-heating device for heating and or melting a heat affected product zone of shaving or cosmetic products stored in a product container which consists of a layer of said product heated by an electrically conductive metallic target member having through-passages overlying said top product surface and energized by an induction coil into which an electromagnetic field is generated by electronic circuitry for a predetermined time period into said product container, thereby permitting said heated and or melted product to flow through said through-passages onto said top surface of said target member to be collected by a user for shaving or cosmetic purposes.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 15/490,363 filed Apr. 18,2017 entitled “Induction Heater and Dispenser” which is a continuationof Ser. No. 15/131,126 filed Apr. 18, 2016 entitled “Induction HeatingDevice for Shaving and Cosmetic Applications” which claims the benefitof Ser. No. 62/365,745 filed on Jul. 22, 2016 entitled “Induction Heaterand Dispenser” and which is also a continuation-in-part of Ser. No.14/341,696 filed Jul. 25, 2014 and PCT/US15/50991 filed Sep. 18, 2015,the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

This application claims the benefit of Ser. Nos. 62/421,164 filed Nov.11, 2016 and 62/365,745 filed on Jul. 22, 2016 and entitled “InductionHeater and Dispenser,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporatedby reference herein.

This application also claims the benefit of Ser. No. 62/365,745 filedJul. 22, 2016 entitled “Induction Heater and Dispenser”, the disclosureof which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

This disclosure relates to an induction heater able to generate anelectromagnetic field into a container housing a target workpiece which,in turn, generates heat which is transferred to a small portion of thematerial contained within the removable container.

Description of the Background Art

Basic principles of induction heating date back to Michael Faraday'swork in 1831. Induction heating is the process of heating anelectrically conductive object by electromagnetic induction, where eddycurrents are generated within the target workpiece. This technology iswidely used in industrial welding, brazing, bending, and sealingprocesses. Also, induction heating has grown very popular in culinaryapplications, providing a more efficient and accelerated heating ofliquids and/or foods on stovetops or in ovens. Advantages of using aninduction heating system are an increase in efficiency by using lessenergy and also generating heat to a specific target workpiece.

Many varieties of dispensers exist for providing a volume of material tothe operator. These are readily seen in household, industrial, andcommercial uses. In each instance pressure is generated which, as aresult, displaces a volume of material. These mechanisms are referred toas pumps.

Additionally, a variety of heaters exist that generate heat and transfersaid heat to a material. Some common methods include resistive,radiative, and induction heating.

The most common heating is resistive heating in which an element isheated through the passage of current through a conductive resistor. Theheat generated is then transferred to the material either throughconvection or conduction. These systems are common, inexpensive, butlack efficiency due to the indirect heating that occurs. In resistivesystems, the vessels that contain the heated material require regularcleaning. Because of the simplicity of this heating system it isgenerally the most inexpensive system of all heating methods. Adisadvantage of this heating method is that material change out requirescareful cleaning to avoid cross-contamination or alternatively, separatesystems per material type.

One attempt of using an induction heating system is disclosed by Brown,et al. in US 20080257880 Al. Brown, et al. disclose an induction heatingdispenser having a refill unit 8 heated by primary and secondaryinduction coils 2 and 13. As disclosed in paragraph [0020], thedispenser can be used for many different applications such as airfresheners, depilatory waxes, insecticides, stain removal products,cleaning materials, creams and oils for applications to the skin orhair, shaving products, shoe polish, furniture polish, etc. The refillunit 8 comprises a multiplicity of replaceable containers 9 for holdingthe respective products. The containers are sealed under a porousmembrane 11. As disclosed in paragraph [0011], the porous membrane isusually removed for meltable solid substances. For volatile liquidsubstances, the porous membrane is not removed. As disclosed inparagraph [0023], the porous membrane 11 has a porosity that allowsvapor to pass through but not liquid to prevent spillage. Also, inparagraph [0020], for heated products that are applied to a surface, thecontainer may have an associated applicator such as a brush, pad orsponge.

Another heated dispenser system is disclosed by Bylsma, et al. in US20110200381 Al. Bylsma, et al. discloses a dispenser wherein the heatingunit could be either in the base unit 10 as illustrated in FIG. 4, or inthe applicator 42 as illustrated in FIG. 5. As disclosed in paragraph[0026], the heating unit may be an inductive power coupling. Asdisclosed in paragraphs [0030-0036], the applicator may be of manydifferent forms depending on the product to be dispensed.

The present invention utilizes induction to heat a target workpieceresiding within an induction cavity of a removable material container.The induction cavity is sized such that the volume contained therein isproportional to the amount needed per application. It should be notedthat the volume contained in the induction cavity is the only volumeheated during the heating cycle of the present invention.Advantageously, this immediately provides the user with heated materialfor each application and the ability for rapid material change into andout of the induction dispenser without risk of cross-contamination.

Within the field of induction heating the temperature of the targetworkpiece is generally controlled by the time and relative strength ofthe electromagnetic field. In some instances a means of feedbackrelating the target workpiece temperature is provided to the inductioncontrol circuit by a sensor external to the target workpiece. Generally,the sensor is wired directly to the induction heater. Due to thecomplexity and inherent unreliability, the integration of targetworkpiece temperature control into an induction heater has beenrelinquished to a trial and error process. However, one such temperaturecontrolled induction system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,066,374 byWarren S. Grabber. Said prior art by Grabber discloses an inductionheating device that utilizes a temperatures sensor that is mounted tothe bottom inside surface of the holding device. A pan functions as thetarget workpiece and contacts said temperature sensor when placed withinthe induction heating device. Heat from the pan is conducted to thetemperature sensor and is measured accordingly. Drawbacks with such asystem are as follows; Contact must be maintained between thetemperature sensor and target workpiece vessel. Should interferenceoccur the measurement would be incorrect and the actual temperature muchhigher than the measured temperature. Such sensors are susceptiblefailure due to contaminants, spills, or general cleaning cycles.Depending on the geometry and material of the target workpiece, areas ofhigher localized heat, “hot spots,” will occur. In fact, the targetworkpiece area that is measured by said temperature sensor would be a“cold spot” on said target workpiece due to the coil configuration thatis configured to accommodate said temperature sensor. In other words, byusing a temperature sensor the induction coil cannot occupy the spaceoccupied by the temperature sensor and therefore heat is not generatedin that area of the target workpiece. Thus the temperature at thehottest location of the target workpiece and the temperature measured bythe temperature sensor have significant difference.

Within the field of induction heating, target workpiece temperaturecontrol has been relegated to either relative measurements or in somecases a maximum temperature such as the teaching in U.S. Pat. No.8,263,916 by Hagino Fujita, hereinafter “Fujita.” Fujita presents aninduction target workpiece that is incorporated into a container forheating foods and the like. The target workpiece is configured with“separation sections.” Said separation sections break when the highfrequency electromagnetic field create eddy current strong enough insaid separation sections to cause failure or breakage. As a result, thetarget workpiece becomes unusable. Said separation sections are createdby folds in the target workpiece. The novelty of this invention relieson a coil configuration that creates eddy current flow radially.Additionally, the “separation section functions essentially as a thermalfuse. As such, the induction heating device that develops the highfrequency electromagnetic field would need to be adjusted so as toprevent immediate destruction of the invention should the field be toostrong. Additionally, it should be noted that said separation sectionscreate high resistance in their locations which causes them to be higherin temperature than other locations within the target workpiece.

Further, the use of a bellows pump system would be preferable for thistype of induction heating system. The assembly described in U.S. Pat.No. 7,793,803 to Neerinex et al., hereinafter “Neerinex,” presents anassembly which provides a configuration best suited for introduction ofthe target workpiece. The assembly allows for the compression anddecompression of the bellows which, in concert with the system describedherein, allows for the easy production of heated material. Additionally,it should be noted that Neerinex requires substantive modification tothe valve portion of the assembly in order to provide the properstructure to introduce the target workpiece. While Neerinex provides theoptimal pump system for the induction heating system described herein,other pumps may be used to achieve the desired result. For example,applicators such as those used in caulking guns can be modified for usein the present invention.

Therefore, it is an object of this invention to provide an improvementwhich overcomes the aforementioned inadequacies of the prior art devicesand provides an improvement which is a significant contribution to theadvancement of the induction and dispenser art.

Another object of this invention is to provide a dispenser which heats asmall amount of material that a user can put on their skin wherein theheated material diffuses into the user's skin at a faster rate due tothe higher temperature.

Another object of this invention is to provide a dispenser wherein thematerial can be gel, liquid or solid.

Another object of this invention is to provide a dispenser which uses asmall target workpiece made out of aluminum or similar conductive metalfor use with induction heating which may or may not also be coated inplastic or similar material so as to prevent oxidation of the targetworkpiece.

Another object of this invention is to provide a dispenser whichautomatically dispenses material through the use of a motion sensor.

Another object of this invention is to provide a dispenser which quicklyheats only the volume of material to be dispensed, leaving the remainderof the material within in the container at room temperature therebyavoiding degradation of certain materials and for easy removal of thecontainer even directly after heated material has been dispensed.

Another object of this invention is to provide an induction cavitywherein the induction cavity is comprised of a channel to control theflow of the material to be heated. Within said channel, the material isheated against the target workpiece. This heating action occurs duringthe dispensing of the material from the container.

Another object of this invention is to provide an induction cavitywherein the target workpiece is configured to evenly distribute heatacross the maximum surface area of said target workpiece.

Another object of this invention is to provide a product container thathouses a target workpiece that is configured to provide feedback to theinduction dispenser regarding the temperature of the target workpiece.

Another object of this invention is to provide a product container witha target workpiece that mechanically limits the maximum heat provided tothe material during and due to consecutive heat cycles.

Another object of this invention is to provide an induction dispenserthat detects the change of the target workpiece within the container asa change in tank frequency.

Another object of this invention is to provide an induction dispenserthat controls parameters of the heating cycle based on the inductance ofthe coil.

The foregoing has outlined some of the pertinent objects of theinvention. These objects should be construed to be merely illustrativeof some of the more prominent features and applications of the intendedinvention. Many other beneficial results can be attained by applying thedisclosed invention in a different manner or modifying the inventionwithin the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other objects and afuller understanding of the invention may be had by referring to thesummary of the invention and the detailed description of the preferredembodiment in addition to the scope of the invention defined by theclaims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an induction heater forwarming products such as soaps, creams, lotions, gel compositions, orother solutions (hereinafter “material”) for use on the skin. Thematerial is stored in a container wherein only a certain volume of theproduct is heated and/or melted by an induction-heating device. Anelectrically conductive metallic workpiece, also known as the “targetworkpiece,” is positioned within an induction cavity preferably placedbetween a dispensing mechanism and an outlet. The target workpiece mayalso be located before the dispensing mechanism or the system may havemultiple target workpieces working in concert with one another. Theinduction heater preferably uses a motion sensor which causes thedispensing mechanism to dispense material through the induction cavity.The heated target workpiece then warms the material on its way to theoutlet. Another embodiment of the induction heater has it heating a toplayer of material.

The dispenser preferably has a housing with an induction coil housing.The induction coil housing is an electromagnetic heating circuit and aninduction coil with an aperture for the reception of a materialcontainer. The induction coil is disposed in parallel relation to theinduction cavity within the material container as described hereinafter.A user interface is also mounted on a front surface of the housing forcontrolling the dispensing of material and the warming and/or meltingand/or liquefying of the material for dispensing. Although the preferredshape of the target workpiece is disc-shaped, other geometric shapes mayalso be employed such as square-shaped or rectangular-shaped dependingon the shape of the product container as discussed in more detailhereinafter. The present invention is a more effective means of heatingthe product; especially for an amount necessary for the immediateapplication since only the product in the induction cavity is heatedand/or melted. As different products may be stored in differentcontainers, the containers of product are easily accessible andinterchangeable from the induction receptacle. A unique RFID tag can beincorporated into each material container to allow the material andassociated target workpiece to be uniquely identified by the inductionsystem having an RFID reader to provide the necessary heating accordingto the advantages of the present invention. The present invention has noopen flame, operates silently, and stays cool after the container isremoved. Furthermore, the product will return to its original form(e.g., solid, cream or gel) more quickly than if the entire product wasmelted, minimizing degradation of the product.

Another arrangement involves storing the products in a container whereinonly the upper portion of the product is heated and/or melted by aninduction-heating device. An electrically conductive metallic targetworkpiece (hereinafter “target workpiece”) having through-passages ispositioned generally on the top surface of the product within theproduct container. As the target workpiece becomes heated by theinduction system, the heated and/or melted product flows through thethrough-passages. The present invention instantaneously heats only aportion or volume of product necessary for immediate application by theuser. The induction-heating device comprises a housing with a top outersurface defining an induction receptacle. Mounted within said housing isan electromagnetic heating circuit and an induction coil. The inductioncoil is disposed in parallel relation to the induction receptacle asdescribed hereinafter. A user interface is also mounted in the topsurface of the housing for controlling the warming and/or melting orliquefying the product in the “heat affected product zone”. The deviceincludes an induction receptacle that accepts a product container filledwith a product. The electromagnetic heating circuit and induction coilgenerate an electromagnetic field within the product container thatinduces eddy currents into the target workpiece thereby heating thetarget workpiece. The present invention may be further characterized inthat the induction coil may have various configurations as described infurther detail hereinafter for varying the electromagnetic field. Insidethe product container, the target workpiece is disposed across the topsurface of the product. The target workpiece comprises through-passagesfor allowing heated and/or melted product to flow therethrough. The heatgenerated in the target workpiece is then conducted to the “heataffected product zone” of the product to heat and/or melt or liquefyonly the product in the “heat affected product zone”. The targetworkpiece then acts as an interface between the user (or user's brush,pad, cloth, finger, and the like) and the product. The target workpiecemay be comprised of various geometric configurations that allow the userto stir or agitate different products to the desired temperature and/orconsistency. In applications requiring the product to be heated (such ascosmetics, lotions, creams, balms, waxes, etc.), the target workpiecewould be predominantly flat. In applications requiring the product to beheated and lathered, the target workpiece would be comprised of non-flatgeometry including raised portions or indentions depending onorientation of the target workpiece within the product receptacle.Alternative to a relatively flat profile, the target workpiece may bedish-shaped, cup-shaped or corrugated-shaped. The target workpiece maycomprise an electrically conductive disc made of a metal screen, a metalplate perforated with holes, slots or a combination of holes and slots,all of which provide through-passages to allow product to passtherethrough. Although the preferred shape of the target workpiece isdisc-shaped, other geometric shapes may also be employed such assquare-shaped or rectangular-shaped depending on the shape of theproduct container as discussed in more detail hereinafter. As theproduct in the heat affected product zone is only heated and/or melted,an applicator such as a shaving brush or skin pad can be used to collectthe heated and/or melted product from the upper surface of the targetworkpiece which can be applied to the face or any other desired locationof the body. The present invention is a more effective means of heatingthe product; especially for an amount necessary for the immediateapplication since only the product in the heat affected product zone isheated and/or melted. As different products may be stored in differentcontainers, the containers of product are easily accessible andinterchangeable from the induction receptacle. A unique RFID tag isincorporated into each product container to allow the product andassociated target workpiece to be uniquely identified by the inductionsystem to provide the necessary heating according to the advantages ofthe present invention. The present invention has no open flame, operatessilently, and stays cool after the container is removed. Furthermore,the product will return to its original form (e.g., solid, cream or gel)more quickly than if the entire product was melted, minimizingdegradation of the product.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent andimportant features of the present invention in order that the detaileddescription of the invention that follows may be better understood sothat the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated.Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter whichform the subject of the claims of the invention. It should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and thespecific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis formodifying or designing other structures for carrying out the samepurposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by thoseskilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart fromthe spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appendedclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a first embodiment of the presentinvention's trapezoidal-shaped housing.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view along the lines 11-11 shown in FIG. 1

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view along the lines 11-11 shown in FIG. 1inclusive of the induction heating system.

FIG. 4 illustrates the stages that a product within a product containerundergoes during a single heating cycle.

FIG. 5 A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the presentinvention illustrating an assembled induction receptacle, productcontainer and target workpiece comprising a screen bound by a floatationring.

FIG. 5B is an exploded view of the second embodiment of the presentinvention illustrated in FIG. 5 A.

FIG. 6 is a circuit block diagram of the electronic system of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the actual arrangement of componentswithin the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of a third embodiment of the presentinvention similar to the first embodiment but with a rectangular-shapedhousing and modified cylindrical induction coil configuration.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of a fourth embodiment of thepresent invention having a modified induction receptacle and productcontainer and a modified coil configuration.

FIG. 10A shows perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the presentinvention similar to the second embodiment illustrated in Figs. SAwherein the floatation ring is eliminated.

FIG. 10B is an exploded view of the fifth embodiment of the presentinvention illustrated in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an inductionreceptacle, product container and target workpiece usable with thefourth embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11B is an exploded view of sixth embodiment of FIG. 11A.

FIGS. 12 through 20 show various embodiments of target workpieces.

FIG. 21 shows a high level flowchart demonstrating the process by whichthe input power is transferred to the target workpiece.

FIG. 22 shows a flowchart of the decision making process of the presentinvention.

FIG. 23 is a front isometric view of an alternative embodiment of theinvention including the dispenser housing and the material container.

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the material container.

FIG. 25 is a front isometric view of the dispenser housing.

FIG. 26 is an exploded view of the induction cavity.

FIG. 27 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the inductioncavity.

FIG. 28 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the inductioncavity.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the materialcontainer.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the materialcontainer.

FIG. 31 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the inductioncavity.

FIG. 32 is an operational flowchart of the induction dispenser.

Similar reference numerals refer to similar parts throughout the severalviews of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following description is of the best mode presently contemplated forcarrying out the invention. This description is not to be taken in alimiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing one ormore preferred embodiments of the invention. The scope of the inventionshould be determined with reference to the claims.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, an exploded view of a first embodiment of thepresent invention basically includes an induction heating unit mainhousing (1) connected to a power supply (2). In describing the structureof the present invention, elements common to each embodiment will begiven the same numerals. The main housing (1) has a top outer surface(1A) with an opening (1B). An induction receptacle (4) is mounted in themain housing (I) through opening (1B). An induction-heating coil (3) ismounted adjacent the induction receptacle (4). A product container (6)is removably inserted within the induction receptacle (4). In this firstembodiment, the product container (6) includes flange (6D) for receivinga closure (not shown) such as a conventional foil adhered to the flange.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, illustrated are cross-sections along lines11-11 indicated in FIG. 1. The induction receptacle (4) has an open topextending through the top surface (1A). The induction-heating coil (3)surrounds the induction receptacle (4) and is controlled bymicroprocessor (19). The preferred diameter of the container is between2 and 4 inches (5.08 and 10.16 cm). Illustrated as (H) in FIG. 3, theheight of the container is between 0.5 to 2 times the diameter of thecontainer. Although the induction receptacle and product container areillustrated in the form of cylindrically shaped containers, the shape ofthe induction receptacle and product container is not intended to be solimited and other geometric configurations may be employed. Also, theproduct container (6) shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 includes an upper threadedextension (6E) for receiving a threaded closure (not shown).

Referring to FIG. 3, an RFID tag (14) is mounted on or in the bottomsurface of the product container (6) for transmitting data to the RFIDreader (27) which translates information to the microprocessor (19) suchas cycle time, resonant frequency of target workpiece, product type, andother parameters needed to heat the product according to requirements.To ensure the key objectives of the present invention, i.e., immediateheating of the product for an application and to minimize thedegradation of the product, the present invention requires thesuccessful transmission of the information from the RFID tag (14) to theRFID reader (27). A conductive target workpiece (7) havingthrough-passages (7A) is removably inserted within product container (6)and initially rests on the upper product surface (6B) of an unheatedproduct (6A) contained within the container. By using the terminology“conductive target workpiece” herein is meant that it is the onlystructural element of the present invention within the product container(6) that is heated by the induction-heating coil (3). The heat from the“conductive target workpiece” is then transferred to the “heat affectedproduct zone” as described hereinbefore. As explained and emphasized infurther detail hereinafter, the cycle time is adjusted to heat and/ormelt the product only in the “heat affected product zone” therebyallowing product to flow through the through-passages. Once the cycletime is completed and the product cools and returns to its initialstate, the target workpiece remains embedded within the upper surfaceregion of the product. The materials used to manufacture the mainhousing (1), induction receptacle (4) and product container (6) arenon-metallic and non-electrically conductive. Such materials are wellknown and may include any type of well-known polymeric composition. Withthe selection of materials used to manufacture the present invention andthe operation of the present invention as described hereinafter, theheated target workpiece (7) heats and/or melts the product only in the“heat affected product zone”. The product itself is not heated directlyby the induction heater coil (3). Also shown is operator interface oruser interface window (5) in a side surface of housing (1) that allowsthe user to interact with the device through visual and touch basedactions. The target workpiece (7) in the embodiment illustrated in FIG.1 is an electrically conductive metallic screen. The interstices betweenthe metallic strands of the screen constitute through-passages. It isnoted that the target workpiece (7) comprises a geometry to nest withinthe product container (6), which comprises a geometry to nest within theinduction receptacle (4). In other words, the peripheral dimensions ofthe target workpiece (7) and in all embodiments of the present inventiondescribed herein are slightly less than the interior dimensions of theproduct container whereby the target workpiece is free to fall withinthe product container as the product diminishes with each use. Also, theouter peripheral dimensions of the product container are slightly lessthan the interior dimensions of the induction receptacle.

Referring to FIG. 4, the stages that the product undergoes during aheating cycle are illustrated. The region or volume within the productcontainer that is only heated during each stage of a heating cycle isthe “heat affected product zone” indicated as (X). It is emphasized thatthis is a key focus of the present invention because only the product inthe “heat affected product zone” is heated and not the entire productwhich would diminish effectiveness of the product over time. In theproduct container marked “Before”, a cross section containing unheatedproduct (6A) is shown with a target workpiece resting on an upperproduct surface (6B) of the product (6A). In the product containermarked “During”, the product is heated in the heat affected product zone(X), which is the region immediately above, below, and including thetarget workpiece in which the product becomes heated and staged for theuser. During this stage, as the heating cycle begins, an electromagneticfield passes electromagnetic energy within the target workpiece(described in more detail hereinafter) thereby heating the targetworkpiece. Heat then transfers to the product that is in contact withthe target workpiece. The heated product melts or liquefies and thenflows through the target workpiece through-passages (7A) to the uppersurface of the target workpiece (7). The heated product located on theupper surface of the target workpiece is then ready for stirring and/orgathering such with a brush, scraper or fingers by the user. During theheat cycle the target workpiece may descend though the product due togravity or may rely on the downward force by the user. In the productcontainer marked “After”, the induction heating cycle has ended and theproduct and target workpiece begin to cool. As a result the viscosity ofthe product increases and in some instances the product returns from aliquid state to a solid or gelatinous state. Also, after the product hascooled, a residual layer of product (6C) will remain on the uppersurface of the target workpiece (7).

Referring to Figs. SA and SB, the embodiment illustrated includes atarget workpiece (9) illustrated as an electrically conductive metallicscreen and floatation device (10) removably inserted within threadedproduct container (12), which is removably inserted within inductionreceptacle (11). The threaded product container (12) does not include anupper outwardly extending flange or threaded extension as does theproduct container (6) in FIGS. 1-4. In this embodiment, a plug-type ofclosure (not shown) is used to close the product container for storage.The induction receptacle (11) and product container (6) are modifiedwith a non-circular geometry. In particular, each component has at leastone flat surface for aligning the components in assembled position andpreventing rotation while collecting the product onto the applicator.Although this embodiment is shown to have flat surfaces, any otherconfiguration could be employed to align and prevent rotation of thecomponents during use.

Referring to FIG. 6, a circuit block diagram of the present invention isillustrated. A standard wall outlet AC line input (13) is connected to astandard electromagnetic transformer (15) and AC to DC rectifier (16)enclosed within the housing (1) to power the components. The systemfurther includes a standard DC circuit breaker (33) and regulator chip(17) that lowers the voltage to power the sensitive digital components.An operator interface (18) is accessed by window (5) shown in FIGS. 1-3,8 and 9 enabling a user to interact with the device. A microprocessorunit (19) controls level of electromagnetic energy in the resonant tank(26) described in further detail hereinafter to an induction coil (3).The induction coil (3) is disposed adjacent the induction receptacle (4)shown in FIG. 3. The conductive target workpiece (7) is disposed withinthe product container (6) that is removably received within theinduction receptacle (4). The microprocessor (19) varies the level ofheat energy induced into the conductive target workpiece (7) byadjusting the oscillation frequency in the HF converter (25) by means ofpulse width modulation (PWM). The microprocessor (19) also controls theoperator interface (18), temperature sensor (20), current sensor (21),antenna (22), signal processor (24), RFID reader (27) andelectro-acoustic transducer (23). The temperature sensor (20) is capableof reading the internal board component temperatures of themicroprocessor as well as the temperatures of the induction coilwindings. The current sensor (21) is configured to measure the currentdraw through the switching circuit within the microprocessor. Theantenna (22) can be any conventional type such as a dipole, helical,periodic, loop, etc., and is configured to receive information fromremote modules or transmit data to an external remote control device,for example, via Bluetooth technology. The electro-acoustic transducer(23) can be any conventional type, such as a speaker, capable ofproducing warnings such as over-heating temperatures or other helpfulaids to the user throughout the heat cycle. It may also provideinstructions during the product application. The transducer may also beconfigured in such a manner that it records electrical-mechanical pulsesand is read by a signal processor (24). The signal processor (24) is astandard signal-processing unit used to decode information received fromantenna (22) and transmits information via the electro-acoustictransducer (23). The HF inverter (25) converts DC power to highfrequency AC by means of receiving pulse width modulated signals fromthe microprocessor (19) and receiving high levels of DC power fromrectifier (16). The high frequency AC generated by inverter (25) is thenpassed into a series, parallel, quasi-series, or quasi-parallelresistor, capacitor, and inductor network called a Resonant Tank (26).Tank (26) has a resonant frequency determined by the resistor, inductor,and capacitor (RLC) configuration therein. As current passes through theresonant tank (26), it travels through the induction coil which is alarge wound conductive copper induction coil shown as element (3) inFIGS. 1 and 3, as element (3A) in FIG. 8, and as element (3B) in FIG. 9.The RFID reader (27) is mounted within the main housing (1) in closeproximity to the bottom of the induction receptacle (4, 4A and 11) inorder to communicate with the RFID tag (14) on or in the bottom of theproduct container (6, 6A or 12). The Resonant Tank (26) frequency isoptimized through means of electrical reprogramming and tuning carriedout by the microprocessor (19) and high frequency inverter (25). Theoptimization of the resonant tank is achieved by user input and/orinformation generated by the RFID tag (14) located on the productcontainer. This system allows the device to deliver precise amounts ofcurrent into the induction coil (3) to heat the “conductive targetworkpiece” (7), which also limits the system from overheating thevarious components of the system. During the heat cycle and duringnon-heating idle time the microprocessor (19) monitors the currentsensor (21) and temperature sensors (20) to ensure safe operation of thedevice. The coil is not visible to the outside of housing (1) andsurrounds induction receptacle (4) and nested product container (6) withtarget workpiece (7) resting on the top surface of the product withinproduct container (6). Thus, the target workpiece (7) is closelypositioned with respect to the coil (3), which creates anelectromagnetic field that passes electromagnetic energy into theconductive target workpiece (7). By this process, the target workpieceonly is heated by the electromagnetic energy, which is then transferredto the “heat affected product zone” (X) within the product container. Itis again emphasized here that the target workpiece only and not theinduction receptacle and product container is heated by theelectromagnetic energy. The power supply components as described suprais not intended to be limited as will be described hereinafter.

Referring to FIG. 7, a perspective view of how the componentsillustrated in FIG. 6 are arranged in main housing (1). The RF module(31), which comprises the antenna (22) and signal processor (24) seen inFIG. 6, microprocessing unit (19), DC regulator (17), HF converter (25),resonant tank (26), speaker (23), current sensor (21), temperaturesensor (20) are mounted on a main board (32). Power is fed in from astandard electrical wall outlet mains AC at (13). Power fed in isreceived by power supply (2) which includes transformer (15) and AC-DCrectifier (16) where it is converted into DC power and sent to theremaining components via the DC regulator (17) located on the main board(32). A circuit breaker (33) is utilized as a safety fault in the eventof a large current consumption by the device. The operator interface(18) connects into the main board by means of a multi-conductor cableharness (35). The RF module (31) transmits and receives informationthrough antenna (22). Data received and sent passes through a signalprocessing unit (24) to microprocessor (19). The main board (32) iscontrolled by microprocessing unit (19). Low voltage DC power isconverted from high voltage DC by means of a DC regulator IC chip (17)located on the main board (32). The RFID reader (27) is mounted withinhousing (1) in close proximity to induction receptacle (4) forcommunicating with RFID tag (14).

Referring to FIG. 8, a third embodiment of the present invention isillustrated which is similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1with the exception of induction coil (3A) and shape of the main housing(1). The induction coil illustrated in FIG. 2 is configured to have evenwindings from top to bottom. However, the configuration of the inductioncoil may be arranged or formed to meet different requirement perproduct. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 shows an induction coil(3) formed into an evenly pitched helix for relatively even heating ofthe target workpiece (7 or 9) as it descends from the top of the productcontainer (6) to the bottom. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8 showsthe induction coil (3A) wound with variable pitch allowing for variableheating as the target workpiece descends in the product container fromthe top to the bottom. This may advantageously be used to increase,decrease, or make even the heating as the target workpiece descendsthough the coil. This embodiment may further provide the user withproduct heated to a higher level when the product container is full. Asthe product diminishes, the level of heat is reduced to avoid damagingthe product from overheating. Thus, the user is provided with uniformlyheated product throughout the entirety of product within the productcontainer. It is well known that despite even coil pitch the flux linesof energy may be denser in certain areas, specifically towards thecenter height of the helix coil. This may be offset by varying the pitchof the helix only in this area. Alternatively, heat generated within thetarget workpiece may be controlled by indirectly measuring theinductance of the system and varying the frequency thereof. Mostpreferably, the present invention utilizes the unique RFID tagassociated with each product container, associated with each targetworkpiece, to properly regulate the parameters that relate to theheating cycle. In this embodiment, the main housing has a rectangularshaped housing having interface (S) located on a top surface thereof.

Referring to FIG. 9, a fourth embodiment of the present invention isillustrated which is similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8with the exception of the induction coil (3B), which is formed as apancake coil. Also, the induction receptacle (4A) and product container(6A) have an overall depth much less than the induction receptacles andproduct containers of the previous described embodiments. All othercomponents are the same as those of the embodiments illustrated in FIG.2 or 8. The effective height of the electromagnetic field generated bythe pancake coil (3A) is much less than that of the cylindrical coils ofthe previous embodiments thus taking into account the lesser overalldepth of the product receptacle (4A) and product container (6A). Inother words, the effective distance of the electromagnetic fieldgenerated by the pancake coil (3A) is sufficient to heat the targetworkpiece disposed at an upper region of the product within the productcontainer of lesser height.

Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, the embodiment illustrated is similar tothe embodiment illustrated in Figs. SA and SB. The target workpiece (9)is removably inserted within product container (12), which is removablyinserted within induction receptacle (11). The components of thisembodiment are similar to those shown in Figs. SA and SB with theexception that the target workpiece does not include a floatation ring.The target workpiece (9) comprises geometry to nest within the productcontainer (12), which comprises geometry to nest within the inductionreceptacle (11). In this variant, the assembly is comprised of anasymmetrical geometry about a medial plane to prevent the rotation ofthe target workpiece when stirred or agitated. The product container isbetween 2 and S inches (S.08 and 12.7 cm) deep requiring use of coilsalong the sides of the induction receptacle. In particular, thecross-section of each component has at least one flat side surface foraligning the components in assembled position and preventing rotationwhile collecting the product onto the applicator. Although thisembodiment is shown to have flat side surfaces, the cross-sectionalconfiguration of each component could be of any geometric shape to alignand prevent rotation of the components during use.

Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B, the alternative embodiment illustratedincludes a target workpiece (9) illustrated as an electricallyconductive metallic screen removably inserted within product container(12A), which is removably inserted within induction receptacle (11A).This embodiment is to be used with the pancake coil in the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 9. The components of this embodiment are similar tothose shown in Figs. SA, SB, 10A and 10B with the exception that thetarget workpiece does not include floatation ring and the overall depthof the induction receptacle and product container is less. In thisembodiment, the product container (12A) is between 0.500 and 2 inches(1.27 and S.08 cm) deep requiring use of the pancake coil along thebottom of the induction receptacle. This provides opportunity for theuser to introduce product as needed into the product container or tohave a greatly reduced starting sample size. As in the previousembodiments, the cross-section of each component has at least one flatside surface for aligning the components in assembled position andpreventing rotation of the target workpiece while collecting the productonto the applicator, and the cross-sectional configuration of eachcomponent could be of any geometric shape to align and prevent rotationof the components during use.

Referring to FIGS. 12-19, alternative to the electrically conductivescreen type target workpiece illustrated in the embodiments describedabove, other embodiments of target workpieces are shown that can beemployed in each of the embodiments described supra. Applicants havediscovered that by varying the construction of the target workpiece, theheating pattern on the target workpiece can be modified. Each targetworkpiece illustrated in FIGS. 12-19 comprises a solid metallic disctarget workpiece having an outer peripheral surface (51), an uppersurface (52) and a lower surface (53). The peripheral surface (51) iswhere heat originates due to the concentration of flux lines from acylindrical coil such as seen in FIGS. 2 and 8. The upper surface (52)provides the surface area that that the user will interface with. Thelower surface (53) is the area or region that first provides heat to theproduct.

As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 12A, target workpiece (30) comprises asolid metallic disc target workpiece having an outer peripheral surface(51), an upper surface (52) and a lower surface (53). A plurality ofevenly distributed holes or apertures (37) extend therethrough and arelocated in spaced relation between the outer peripheral surface (51). Inthe preferred embodiment, six holes or apertures (37) are circular andhave a diameter ranging between 0.030 to 1.000 inches (0.076 to 2.54cm), most preferably between 0.030 and 0.400 inches (0.076 and 1.016cm). In this embodiment, heat is propagated from the outer peripheralsurface towards the center axis of the target workpiece. As the targetworkpiece is energized by electromagnetic field from the induction coil,the heat generated in the target workpiece (30) is focused in theperipheral region indicated by the cross-hatching (36).

Referring to FIG. 13, target workpiece (39) composes a solid metallicdisc with peripheral, upper and lower surfaces (not numbered). In thisembodiment, the target workpiece includes through-passages comprised offour radially extending slots (40) dividing the disc into four separatequadrants (42) having slots (41) each connected by a central section(43). Each quadrant includes a centrally disposed slot (41) having sharpand/or rounded corners. This embodiment provides an increased rate ofheat transfer within the conductive material from the heat region (44)to the center of the target workpiece due to the absence of material andalso by the outer slots (40) that direct the eddy current along theperipheral surface towards the center. The slots (40) and (41) extendentirely through the disc from the upper surface to the lower surface.In this embodiment, as the target workpiece is energized byelectromagnetic flux from the induction coil, the heat generated in thetarget workpiece (39) is focused in the areas indicated by thecross-hatching (44).

Referring to FIG. 14, target workpiece (45) composes a solid metallicdisc with peripheral, upper and lower surfaces (not numbered). In thisembodiment, the target workpiece includes through-passages comprised ofradially extending square-shaped slots (46) spaced equidistant from eachother. Each slot extends inwardly from the peripheral surface to a pointin the peripheral region (47) of the disc. These square slots arecomprised of only straight walls and 90-degree angles to propagate theheat zone (48) inward from the periphery of the target workpiece. Thisassists in more even heat distribution through the target workpiece.

Referring to FIG. 15, target workpiece (49) comprises a solid metallicdisc with peripheral, upper and lower surfaces (not numbered). Thisembodiment includes through-passages comprised of a radially extendingslot (40) and crescent-shaped slot (62). Slot (50) extends from theperipheral surface to one corner of a central diamond-shaped cutout(64). Except for the corner where the slot (50) enters thediamond-shaped cutout, the remaining corners are formed with pronouncedpeaks (63). Crescent-shaped slot (62) surrounds the slot (40) anddiamond-shaped cutout (64). The slots (40) and (62) and diamond-shapedcutout (64) extend entirely through the disc from the upper surface tothe lower surface. The remainder of the disc is solid. In thisembodiment, as the target workpiece is energized by electromagnetic fluxfrom the induction coil, the heat generated in the target workpiece (49)is focused in the indicated regions (54).

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, target workpiece (55) comprises a solidmetallic disc with peripheral, upper and lower surfaces (not numbered).In this embodiment, the target workpiece (55) is similar to the targetworkpiece illustrated in FIG. 12 and therefore, would have the verysimilar heat distribution. However, this embodiment differs from that ofFIG. 12 in that each hole (57) is surrounded by an upstanding conicaltarget workpiece (56). The upstanding conical target workpiecesfacilitate agitation and lathering of the melted product as it flowsthrough holes or through-passages (57) and collected by the user such asby a shaving brush. Each conical target workpiece extends between 0.010and 0.250 inches (0.0254 and 0.635 cm) from the upper surface of thetarget workpiece. Each hole (57) may be between 0.020 and 0.750 inches(0.05 and 1.9 cm) in diameter. In this embodiment, although nocross-hatching is shown, as the target workpiece is energized byelectromagnetic flux from the induction coil, the heat generated in thetarget workpiece (55) is focused in the same region indicated by thecross-hatching (36) in FIG. 12.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, target workpiece (58) comprises a solidmetallic disc with peripheral, upper and lower surfaces (not numbered).In this embodiment, the target workpiece (58) includes a through-passagecomprised of a single central large hole (60) extending therethroughfrom the upper surface to the lower surface. A plurality of upstandingribs (59) are evenly disposed on the upper surface. The upstanding ribsprovide agitation to the melted product as it flows through hole (60) tocreate lather when the melted product is collected by the user such asby a shaving brush. In this embodiment, although no cross-hatching isshown, as the target workpiece is energized by electromagnetic flux fromthe induction coil, the heat generated in the target workpiece (58) isevenly focused about each of the upstanding ribs (59).

Referring to FIG. 20, the target workpiece illustrated is the conductivemetallic screen (7 or 9) shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 8-11.The screen is comprised of woven strands of electrically conductivematerial, preferably aluminum or stainless steel. The woven strands arebetween 0.010 and 0.070 inches (0.0254 and 1.778 cm) in diameter with anopen area between 20 and 85 percent of the whole area. The intersticesbetween the woven strands constitute through-passages for heated and/ormelted product to flow through the target workpiece. The heat zone (61)propagates from four outer peripheral regions towards the center. Thesefour outer peripheral regions are located at the points on theperipheral surface where the longest strands intersect the peripheralsurface. The contact points of the strands are preferably joined tofacilitate even distribution of the heat zone. The varying topology ofthe top surface of this embodiment provides the user with an area thatis highly advantageous for creating lather. In this embodiment, as thetarget workpiece is energized by electromagnetic flux from the inductioncoil, the heat generated in the target workpiece is focused about itsperipheral region as indicated by the cross-hatched area (61).

Although only indicated in FIG. 12A, all the target workpiecesillustrated in FIGS. 12-19 have a material thickness (h) ranging between0.005 and 0.150 inches (0.0127 and 0.0381 cm), most preferably between0.008 and 0.020 inches (0.020 and 0.050 cm), and a width (w) rangingbetween 2 and 4 inches (5.08 cm and 10.16 cm). The various targetworkpiece configurations illustrated in FIGS. 12-19 provide differingheating characteristics by changing or interrupting the peripheralsurface (51) profile, or target workpiece surface that is parallel tothe cylindrical coil wall, of the target workpiece. Depending on theapplication and heating requirement, some target workpieces have moretotal surface area to provide more contact with the product, and thusfaster heating of the product. The varying upper surface (52) topographyof each target workpiece in conjunction with the viscosity of theproduct may significantly impact the rate at which the target workpiecedescends though the product. Additionally, the varying top surfacetopography provides opportunity for aeration. For applications requiringagitation or aeration the top surface topography of the target workpiecepossess more variance. The size and number of openings are alsoadvantageous in providing agitation of the product for applicationsrequiring lather, such as shaving soaps. The present invention maysimultaneously utilize one or more target workpieces composed of any ofthe following types of steel alloy, carbon, tool, or stainless and maybe of the ferritic, martensitic, and/or austenitic grain structure.Additionally, and preferably, the target workpiece may be of any of theSAE designated aluminum types. Aluminum, generally non-compatible withhousehold induction heaters/cookers, provides corrosion resistance, avery low heat capacity, and high thermal conductivity as compared toother materials that work with household induction cooking/warmingsystems. The low heat capacity of the aluminum allows the targetworkpiece to raise temperature quickly and also to cool quickly once thecycle has ended. This in turn allows the product to return to itsoriginal state more quickly than would one of the steel grades thatretains more heat. A target workpiece comprised of a material with ahigh heat capacity would descend downward towards the bottom of theproduct container even after necessitating use due to the excess heatheld within the conductive material. The high thermal conductivity ofthe aluminum target workpiece is advantageous in transferring the heatgenerated by the eddy current to the product as quickly as possible. Asa result of the high thermal conductivity and low heat capacity, theenergy from the electromagnet field is instantaneously transferred tothe product, in the form of heat, with minimal dwell time in the targetworkpiece.

The block diagram illustrated in FIG. 21 shows the process fortransferring power from its origin to heat energy within the targetworkpiece. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the Power Input Stage is in theform of alternating current as commonly sourced by the wall outlet inresidential and/or commercial buildings. This alternating current passesinto a rectifier stage whereby it is converted to direct current. Thisstage is not intended to be limiting but rather showing one suitableoption. For example, the transformer and rectifier may be incorporatedinto the microprocessor unit. In other embodiments the AC line may beeliminated and replaced with a battery. The direct current is thenconverted back to a high frequency alternating current by any commonoscillator circuit whether digital or analog. The high frequencyalternating current then creates an electromagnetic field that generateseddy current within the target workpiece and thus creating heat.

The diagram in FIG. 22 shows a decision making process related to theRFID system. A unique RFID tag (14) is attached to each productcontainer and has been pre-programmed with information used by thepresent invention for optimizing the induction heating cycle for thegiven product. After detection, the RFID reader reads the information onthe RFID tag found on the internal memory blocks within the RFID tag andprovides that information to the microprocessor. This informationincludes product type, heat cycle duration, heat level required, andinduction values needed for optimization of the induction cycle, such asfrequency. The system then runs the validation algorithm to determinethat the RFID tag is a valid tag. This step is incorporated as a safetymeasure. After completing these steps, the system unlocks the system andalerts the user that the heat cycle may activated. After a given numberof cycles has been run the RFID tag associated with the productcontainer is modified by the induction system microcontroller to provideinformation such as number of cycle run, duration of cycles, date,and/or other information related to product usage. Additionally, thesystem may render the RFID tag incapacitated for future use.

Operation of the induction heating system of the present invention is asfollows. AC power supply (13) is connected to the system. Voltagereceived is then electromagnetically reduced by transformer (15) andconverted into direct current (DC) waveform by rectifier (16).Transformer (15) and rectifier (16) may be packaged together externallyin an AC to DC power supply commonly used by computers or electronicdevices. Inside the device the rectified DC power is passed through DCregulator (17), a monolithic integrated circuit regulator that stepsdown the voltage to TTL, CMOS, ECL levels etc. The induction heater coil(3) is controlled by the microprocessor (19), which also controls thetiming and frequency of the HF inverter (25), sensors (20), (21),operator interface (18), led lights (34), timers, antenna (22), speaker(23) and RFID reader (27). The microprocessor (19) may also be used tointeract with many other device peripherals if needed. Themicroprocessor is programmed to control and vary the oscillationfrequency in order to reach electromagnetic resonance between the targetworkpiece and the resonant tank. The microprocessor has flash memoryread-while-write capabilities and EEPROM storage used in order to storeuser settings, timers, and safeties. Users are able to interact with thedevice by visually watching or pressing the operator interface (18) oruser pushbuttons (29). Display of operator interface (18) is constructedof a piezoresistive, capacitive, surface acoustic, infrared grid orsimilar technologies. It allows the user to press and start a heatingcycle while displaying helpful information based on the temperature orduration of the cycle. Safety information can be depicted on thisdisplay or any other helpful visual aids. In addition to operatorinterface (18), a speaker (23) is used to provide audible feedback andalerts to the user based on the state of the heat cycle. The pushbuttons(29) are used as a secondary source of user input. Nearby LEDs (34) areused to provide a secondary visual indication of the state of thedevice. Pushbuttons, LEDs, and the Operator Interface may bereprogrammed by the manufacturer in order to adjust the functionalityand usability throughout different device revisions. Once a heat cycleis initiated, the microprocessor (19) inputs a low voltage pulse widthmodulated (PWM) signal received by the high frequency (HF) invertermodule (25). The inverter module switches the rectified DC power fromrectifier (16) to HF alternating current power at the oscillationfrequency set by the microprocessor (19). High frequency AC power isthen passed into a series or parallel resonant RLC tank. The tankscapacitance, inductance, and resistance are optimized to reach theresonant frequency of the PWM signal. This resonance also matches theoscillation frequency of the target workpieces illustrated in FIGS.12-20. Throughout the heat cycle, current transferred into each targetworkpiece is measured by sensor (21). At this time, microprocessor (19)adjusts the oscillation frequency in order to transfer maximum powerinto the target workpieces. If the current exceeds a safety limitmeasured by sensor (21), the device shuts off the heat cycle. Likewise,the temperature of the internal components is measured by sensor (20).This prevents the device from being left on throughout the day oroperating in harsh environments. Sensor (20) also measures the inductioncoil (3) temperature to prevent overheating on its internal windings.During the heat cycle high frequency currents are passed through theresonant tank (26) and into the coil (3, 3A or 3B) disposed adjacent theinduction receptacle (4, 4A or 11) that receives the product container(6, 6A or 12). The high frequency currents are then transferred to thetarget workpiece through means of electromagnetic induction. Eddycurrents are generated inside the target workpiece and cause a Jouleheating effect as well as a heating through magnetic hysteresis. Heatgenerated through the target workpiece then permeates through to the toplayer of the product inside the container. Due to the geometry of thetarget workpiece, energy is transferred more directly to the “heataffected product zone” of the product inside product container (6, 6A or12).

Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a dispenser usinginductive heat to heat certain volumes of material upon dispensing. Asillustrated in FIG. 23, the dispensing system (100) comprises a productcontainer (200) and dispenser (300). The product container (200) isgenerally locked in the dispenser when in use as described herein.

As illustrated in FIG. 24, this cross-sectional view shows the materialcontainer (200). Any variety of pumping mechanism (243) may be used toexpel material (281) from the product container (200). In a preferredembodiment, aspects of the product container (200) are compressible byexternal means thus providing a diaphragm (520) and check valve (510)internal to the product container (200).

Further detail of the diaphragm and check valve are shown in FIG. 29.This allows the material to be delivered either manually or by thedispenser. In either instance, an external force is required to expelthe material (281) from the product container (200). The productcontainer (200) comprises a material reservoir (280) and a material heatexchanger cavity (240). The material heat exchanger cavity (240) housesan induction cavity (241) which houses a target workpiece (242). Thetarget workpiece (242) is preferably any conductive material but forapplication in corrosive environments is preferably aluminum orstainless steel or any other type of conductive material which may ormay not be coated with a thin layer of plastic to prevent accumulationof material (281) or oxidation on the target workpiece (242). In apreferred embodiment, the product container (200) further comprises anoutlet (244) from where the heated material (281) is dispensed.

As illustrated in FIG. 25, the dispenser (300) comprises an inductioncoil housing (310) and a cover (340), among other barriers, to assist inretaining the product container (200) when in the proper position. Inone embodiment, the induction coil housing (310) houses an inductioncoil but is also mechanically coupled to a vertical movement system(320) that allows for vertical movement so as to accommodate differentsize product containers (200) or product containers (200) havingdifferent types of pumping mechanisms (243). Additionally, the verticalmovement system (320) allows compression of the product container (200)when the product container (200) requires physical compression todispense the material (281) within. The vertical movement system (320)can be any type of mechanical system which would allow for the verticalmovement required for compression or height changes. When the dispensingsystem (100) receives a signal by pressing the control button (365) tobegin the induction heating cycle, an electromagnetic field is producedwithin the induction coil housing (310). The electromagnetic fieldgenerates an eddy current within the target workpiece (242) therebycreating heat. Preferably, the circuitry used to generate the current islocated within the lower dispenser housing (360). LED lights (375) maybe used to communicate heating cycle status to the user. The dispenser(300) may also use a motion sensor (345) to provide feedback as to whenthe heating and/or dispensing cycle should begin or end. Within thecover (340) lies an RFID reader or similar technology for communicatingwith a RFID tag located on the product container (200) in such alocation that it would be in close proximity to the RFID reader. Animportant feature of the invention is the relationship between thetarget workpiece and the RFID tag. Information contained therein can beread and/or recorded to the RFID tag which itself is associated witheach product container (200) so as to provide unique instructions to thedispenser (300) regarding heating and dispensing.

In one embodiment, the RFID tag provides identification of the resonantfrequency of the target workpiece (242). An onboard ammeter housed inthe dispenser (300) (not pictured) measures current to confirm that theexpected current matches the measured current.

In another embodiment, the target workpiece (242) is comprised of adevice that changes resistance with temperature. As the resistancechanges, due to the temperature change, the inductance of the coilchanges thereby moving the resonant frequency. The resultant resonantfrequency change creates less heat within the target workpiece. Thisrelationship, between frequency, temperature, and current drawn, iscalibrated into the induction dispenser via the RFID tag. In otherwords, the induction heating circuit provides a fixed frequency forgeneration of an electromagnetic field. As the target workpiece (242)increases in temperature the resistance changing device moves the targetworkpiece (242) further from resonance which reduces the heat generatedwithin the target workpiece, thus maintaining the temperature of thetarget workpiece. A form of redundancy is programmed into the system bya third measurement, current. The current draw of the coil is measuredand should be within a given range for a given target workpiece at agiven temperature. All such data and calibration criteria are providedby the RFID tag.

An electromagnetic field based on preset values determined by the RFIDtag can be created such that, with the oscillation frequency fixed, heatis generated within the target workpiece. As the temperature of thetarget workpiece increases the resistance changing device increases inresistances thus moving the inductance of the coil thereby changing theresonant tank frequency. Because the frequency is fixed the currentwould change, either up or down depending on the corresponding resonancevs. current curve. The induction system of said present invention takesmeasurements of current and coil inductance to determine the temperatureof the target workpiece. Depending on RFID instructions and/or userinput to the controls of the induction system the induction system maymake adjustments to either increase or decrease the temperature of thetarget workpiece. Thus, the induction system becomes a closed loopsystem in which measurements are taken to verify and maintain systemfunctions.

As illustrated in FIG. 26, the induction cavity (241) comprises a malecap (410), female receiving cap (420), and target workpiece (242). Themale piece (410) comprises an inlet aperture (412) on its lower face(413), a first cavity (414), a second cavity (416), and dividing wall(418). Preferably, the dividing wall (418) does not fully close off theflow of material (281) from the first cavity (414) and second cavity(416). This can be achieved by machining the male cap (410) to leave agap (419) between the first cavity (414) and second cavity (416).However, the gap (419) is not critical to the invention and the dividingwall (418) can fully wall off the first cavity (414) and the secondcavity (416) and still achieve the same result. The target workpiece(242) is placed on top of the male cap (410). The target workpiece (242)is preferably butterflied but can be a solid disc or other shape aswell. The female receiving cap (420), comprising an outlet aperture(422) on its upper face (424), is placed on top of the male cap (410)and the target workpiece (242). When the material enters the inductioncavity (241) through inlet aperture (412), it is preferable for theinlet aperture (412) to be aligned with second cavity (416) so that thematerial spends as much time as possible in contact with the heatedtarget workpiece (242).

Illustrated in FIG. 27 is a second embodiment of the induction cavity inwhich the target workpiece (242) is a solid disc. The target workpiece(242) preferably has a diameter which is smaller than the diameter ofthe male cap (410) so that the material can pass around the edge of thetarget workpiece (242).

Illustrated in FIG. 28 is a third embodiment of the induction cavity inwhich the target workpiece (242) is configured with a slot (601) that isconnected from one side to another by a device (602) that changesresistance with temperature. Device (602) can be a thermistor, eitherNTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) or PTC (Positive TemperatureCoefficient), a mechanical thermostat, resistive temperature detector orany other means for changing resistance with temperature either nowknown or later discovered. When the target workpiece (242) is locatedwithin the coil the total inductance changes corresponding to theresistance of the device. This provides direct feedback to the inductiondispensing circuit as to the temperature of the target workpiece.

FIG. 29 illustrates a cross-section of an alternative embodiment ofproduct container (200). In this embodiment, the material container(200) is inserted into dispenser (300) upside-down. It is preferable forthe outlet (244) to be a duck-bill style spout to prevent leakage whenthe material (281) is at least semi-liquid. In this embodiment, theproduct container (200) contains a diaphragm (510) and check valve (520)which determines the volume of material (281) going through theinduction cavity (241). A check valve outlet (530) siphons the material(281) to the induction cavity (241). A conduit (540) between the outletaperture (422) of the induction cavity (241) and the outlet (244) of theproduct container (200) is necessary for the proper flow of material(281).

FIG. 30 illustrates a side section view of a second embodiment of theproduct container (200). In this embodiment the product container (200)does not possess an energy storing device such as a spring or the likefor dispensing. This product container (200) is configured similar to acaulking tube in which a follower plate (801) must be actuated in orderto dispense product. In this embodiment the target workpiece (242) liesin a region near the exit orifice (802). When the heating cycle beginsthe material (281) immediately in contact with the target workpiece(242) is heated thus lowering the viscosity. An external force isapplied to the follower plate (801) in turn dispensing or expellingheated material (281) from the exit aperture (803).

Because only the material (281) within approximately 2-3 mm of thetarget workpiece (242) is heated the time required before heatedmaterial (281) may be used is minimized. Additionally, because only thematerial (281) to be used is heated the rest of the material (281)within the product container (200) maintains its original unheated statethereby preventing degradation of the material.

FIG. 31 shows another embodiment of the induction cavity (241) of thepresent invention in which the target workpiece (242) is an annular ringhaving a lower floor (901) and side walls (902). To maintain control ofthe flow of material across the surface of the target workpiece (242) aboss (903) is provided. The target workpiece (242) preferably has adiameter such that the lower floor (901) of the target workpiece (242)fits snugly around boss (903). The natural shape of the target workpiece(242) may be interrupted to incorporate a resistance device (904) thatchanges resistance with temperature. When the target workpiece (242) islocated within the coil the total inductance changes corresponding tothe resistance of the device. This provides direct feedback to theinduction dispensing circuit as to the temperature of the targetworkpiece.

FIG. 32 is a flow chart of the operation of the induction dispenser.FIG. 32 is a flow chart of the operation of the present invention. Uponbeing powered on the dispenser searches for an RFID tag. Once an RFIDtag is detected, the RFID tag is read and if the sequence of informationis correct, it is determined to be valid. Once the RFID tag has beendeemed valid by the dispenser the resonant frequency is measured toverify the presence of a target workpiece and also that the targetworkpiece matches the criteria held within the RFID tag. If allpreviously stated criteria has been deemed within the tolerance as foundwithin the RFID tag, the heat recipe is measured and stored within thedevice. Upon activation of the heat cycle, the induction dispenserprovides heat as determined by said heat recipe. In one embodiment ofthe present invention the target workpiece comprises a device thatchanges resistance with temperature. In such an embodiment, data isstored on the RFID tag defining the relationship of the temperature ofthe target workpiece to tank resonant frequency to coil current. As aresult, the induction device measures the current drawn by the coil andresonant frequency to determine and control the target workpiecetemperature. Upon completion of the cycle, per the instructions held bythe RFID tag, the induction dispenser waits for user input to dispensethe heated material. The previously described heating cycle is repeateduntil the RFID tag is no longer detected or when the dispenser ispowered down. At which point, the cycle starts back at the beginning, ortop, of the flow diagram.

The foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the invention.Various modifications and alterations to the described embodiments willbe apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be ableto devise numerous systems, arrangements and methods which, although notexplicitly shown or described herein, embody the principles of theinvention and are thus within the spirit and scope of the presentinvention. In addition, all publications and patent documents referencedherein are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

What is claimed is:
 1. An induction-heating device adapted to heatshaving or cosmetic products comprising: a housing defining anon-electrically conductive induction housing; a non-electricallyconductive product container for holding the product, said productcontainer being removably received in said induction housing; aninduction coil adjacent to said induction housing for generating anelectromagnetic field into said product container; an electricallyconductive target member in said product container comprising a metallicdisc having a cross-section complementally-configured to thecross-section of the product container, the cross-section of themetallic disc being slightly less than the cross-section of the productcontainer thereby permitting said metallic disc to freely descend withinsaid product container as said product is used; and an electromagneticfield activator mounted in said housing and connected to said inductioncoil, said target member being heated during a heating cycle for apredetermined time period in response to said electromagnetic field fromsaid induction coil to heat and or melt the product.
 2. Theinduction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products asclaimed in claim 1, wherein said product container further comprises atop product surface and a heat affected product zone consisting of alayer of said product immediately below said top product surface that isheated by said target member allowing heated material to flow throughsaid target member to be collected by a user for shaving or cosmeticpurposes.
 3. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shaving orcosmetic products as claimed in claim 2 and further comprising: saidhousing having a top surface; said induction housing comprising a sidewall, a bottom wall and an open top mounted in said top surface, saidinduction housing side wall defining an interior surface having auniform cross-section from said open top to said bottom wall, saidproduct container comprises a side wall, a bottom wall and a closableopen top, said product container side wall defining an exterior surfacehaving a uniform cross-section complementally configured to saidinterior surface of said induction housing, said product container beingremovably inserted in said induction housing.
 4. The induction-heatingdevice adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products as claimed in claim3, wherein said product container side wall defining an interior surfacehaving a uniform cross-section from said closable open top to saidbottom wall, said electrically conductive metallic target member furthercomprises a peripheral surface complementally configured to saidinterior surface of said product container.
 5. The induction-heatingdevice adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products as claimed in claim4, wherein said induction housing comprises a first cylindrically shapedcup and said product container comprises a second cylindrically shapedcup.
 6. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmeticproducts as claimed in claim 5, wherein said first and secondcylindrically shaped cups and target member are configured to maintainalignment and prevent rotation therebetween during use.
 7. Theinduction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products asclaimed in claim 6, wherein said first and second cylindrically shapedcups have flat sidewall sections and said target member peripheralsurface has a flat section aligned with said flat sidewall sections tomaintain said alignment and prevent rotation therebetween during use. 8.The induction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmeticproducts as claimed in claim 2, further comprising means for supplyingan alternating current source or a direct current source to electroniccircuitry.
 9. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shaving orcosmetic products as claimed in claim 8, wherein said electroniccircuitry includes means for generating high frequency electromagneticenergy into said electrically conductive metallic target member, saidelectronic circuitry further including means for regulating saidalternating current or direct current to modulate the heat generatedinside said electrically conductive metallic target member.
 10. Theinduction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products asclaimed in claim 9, wherein said means comprises a microprocessor, highfrequency inverter circuit, resonant tank circuit and said inductioncoil.
 11. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shaving orcosmetic products as claimed in claim 10, further comprising an operatorinterface connected to said microprocessor for permitting a user tomanually start and stop a heating cycle, for adjusting the energy leveland duration of heat during a heating cycle, and for displaying helpfulinformation based on the energy level, temperature, or duration of theheating cycle.
 12. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shavingor cosmetic products as claimed in claim 11, further comprising at leastone current sensor and at least one temperature sensor for monitoringcurrents and temperatures of the electronic circuitry.
 13. Theinduction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products asclaimed in claim 12, further comprising visual and/or acoustical alarmmeans responsive to said current and temperature sensors for indicatingover-currents or over-heating temperatures of the electronic circuitry.14. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmeticproducts as claimed in claim 10, further comprising an RF module fortransmitting and receiving information to and from said microprocessorfor remotely controlling said electronic circuitry.
 15. Theinduction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products asclaimed in claim 14, further comprising a speaker for transmittinginformation received via said RF module, such information relating tothe start and stop of a heating cycle or the adjusted energy level andduration of heat during a heating cycle or temperature and currentsensing levels.
 16. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shavingor cosmetic products as claimed in claim 1, wherein said metallic disccomprises a donut-shaped disc.
 17. The induction-heating device adaptedto heat shaving or cosmetic products as claimed in claim 1, wherein saidmetallic disc comprises at least one hole extending therethrough, atleast one slot extending therethrough, or a combination of at least onehole and at least one slot extending therethrough.
 18. Theinduction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmetic products asclaimed in claim 1, wherein said metallic heat conductive disc comprisesat least one element located on said upper surface adjacent to said atleast one hole and extending normal to the plane of said upper surface.19. The induction-heating device adapted to heat shaving or cosmeticproducts as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one elementcomprises a rib.
 20. The induction-heating device adapted to heatshaving or cosmetic products as claimed in claim 1, wherein saidmetallic disc is comprised of stainless steel or aluminum.